External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar expressed his condolences over the loss of lives caused by the recent earthquake in Afghanistan’s Balkh, Samangan, and Baghlan provinces. In a social media post, Dr Jaishankar said that he had spoken with his Afghan counterpart, Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi, this afternoon to convey his condolences. He noted that Indian relief materials for the earthquake affected communities were being handed over today, with additional supplies of medicines expected to arrive soon. The Minister also mentioned that the two leaders discussed the progress of India-Afghanistan bilateral relations. He welcomed the strengthening of people to people ties between the two nations and appreciated the exchange of views on the regional situation.